California, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Bed Bath & Beyond’s Executive Chairman, Marcus Lemonis, announced that the company will not open new stores in California, citing the state’s high costs and regulatory challenges. Following its bankruptcy in 2023, the company has restructured under Beyond Inc. and recently opened its first new store in Nashville, Tennessee. While California customers can still shop online, the company plans to focus on expanding smaller store locations across the U.S., excluding California, due to its perceived unfavorable business climate.
California – Bed Bath & Beyond’s Executive Chairman Marcus Lemonis announced that the company will not be opening any retail stores in California due to significant regulatory challenges and a high-cost business environment. Lemonis, who leads the company’s efforts to revive after its bankruptcy in 2023, made these remarks on August 20, 2025, highlighting his concerns about the state’s ability to foster a successful business climate.
Following its bankruptcy, which resulted in the closure of all its over 300 locations, Bed Bath & Beyond has shifted strategies. The company is now owned by Beyond Inc., which also includes the brands buybuy BABY and Overstock.com. Recently, Bed Bath & Beyond opened its first Bed Bath & Beyond Home store in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 8, 2025, marking a step toward recovery.
Lemonis pointed to California’s overregulated and expensive business environment as the main reasons behind the decision. He mentioned that the state’s regulatory system imposes high taxes, fees, and wages, making it difficult for businesses to grow successfully. Currently, California’s minimum wage stands at $16.50 per hour, and it has been ranked as the most expensive state to start a business in the United States. Additionally, Lemonis emphasized that his decision is rooted in practical considerations rather than political motivations.
Despite the lack of physical stores in California, Lemonis reassured potential customers that they could still access Bed Bath & Beyond products through online purchases, with deliveries available within 24 to 48 hours. This virtual option aligns with the company’s broader plan to open around 300 smaller store locations across the U.S. in the next two years, exclusively outside California.
Lemonis, known for his business revival strategies and appearances on television programs like “The Profit”, used his social media platform to engage with his followers and gather suggestions for potential new store locations. His call to the public asked, “What city/town should the next Bed Bath & Beyond open?” illustrating his commitment to community involvement as part of the store’s comeback strategy.
The announcement from Lemonis mirrors a growing trend of companies moving their operations away from California due to perceptions of its anti-business climate. In response to Lemonis’s remarks, California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office expressed surprise at the company’s renewed efforts for relevance post-bankruptcy. Other businesses, such as Brightpoint Ventures, have similarly announced relocations from California to states like Florida, reinforcing a narrative of discontent with California’s business environment.
Company’s Future Plans
Moving forward, Bed Bath & Beyond aims to expand its presence across the country while navigating the challenges posed by state regulations. Its goal remains to create a strong retail platform that not only benefits the company but also customers across various markets, despite the ongoing challenges posed by the regulatory landscape.
Background Context on California’s Business Climate
California has often been criticized for its high operating costs and regulatory hurdles that can deter new business development. As more companies assess their operational viability in California, there is a visible trend of businesses relocating to states perceived as more favorable for growth.
Summary of Key Points
- Marcus Lemonis announced no new Bed Bath & Beyond stores in California.
- California is seen as overregulated and expensive for businesses.
- Bed Bath & Beyond opened a new store in Nashville, Tennessee.
- Online shopping options remain available for California customers.
- The company plans to open 300 smaller locations nationwide, excluding California.
FAQ
Why isn’t Bed Bath & Beyond opening stores in California?
The Executive Chairman, Marcus Lemonis, cited California’s overregulation, high costs, and challenging business environment as reasons for not opening stores in the state.
What are the plans for Bed Bath & Beyond’s expansion?
The company aims to open around 300 smaller store locations across the U.S. in the coming years, but none are planned for California.
How can customers in California purchase Bed Bath & Beyond products?
California customers can still purchase products online with delivery options available within 24 to 48 hours.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- USA Today: California Governor Newsom on Bed Bath & Beyond
- Wikipedia: Bed Bath & Beyond
- San Francisco Chronicle: Bed Bath & Beyond in California
- Google Search: Bed Bath & Beyond California business environment
- KTLA: Bed Bath & Beyond California Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: California
- Forbes: Bed Bath & Beyond’s New Plans
- Google News: Bed Bath & Beyond California expansion
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
